The construction of hegemonic masculinity and misogyny by Turkish Incels on YouTube

In the study, the construction of hegemonic masculinity and misogyny discourses by Incels, who constitute a significant subculture and group within the manosphere in Turkey, are analyzed. The YouTube posts and comments of Incels were analyzed using the netnographic method. It was found that the Turkish manosphere represents an outward form similar to that found in Western societies. Similar to various Asian countries, it was observed that local culture influences the discourses and subculture of the manosphere. However, the jargon used by the Incel group under examination includes English terms commonly used in the Western manosphere. In this sense, it is evident that Turkish Incels have not developed a unique local language. As a result of the study, it was determined that the Incels construct hegemonic masculinity in a radical context and aim for a male-dominated society. Additionally, Turkish Incels frequently express the belief that men are innocent and victimized by women. While these discourses are grounded in global Incel rhetoric, they are shaped by factors specific to Turkey. Another significant finding of the study is that Turkish Incels often reference Turkish culture and religious beliefs in their misogynistic and derogatory remarks about women.